Biography of Sachira Fernando: Founder of NicNac & Exbenlab Tech Entrepreneur
From Bedroom Coder to Tech Entrepreneur
Biography of Sachira Fernando:
Sachira Fernando's journey into entrepreneurship began at a remarkably young age, coding with friends and launching an e-magazine from his bedroom. This venture quickly gained traction, becoming the 11th most popular site in Sri Lanka at the time. Despite starting as a fun project, it planted the seed for Sachira's future business endeavors.
Cloudsense ERP and Beyond
Inspired by his early success, Sachira embarked on a more
ambitious project: Cloudsense ERP, a cloud computing venture focused on the Sri
Lankan IoT market. This AI-based application aimed to revolutionize resource
management for SMEs. Although the venture was eventually discontinued, it
marked Sachira's commitment to innovation in digital technologies.
The AI Butler: NicNac Unveiled
NicNac is Sachira's brainchild, an AI-powered butler
designed to fulfill any request. Utilizing a mobile app, NicNac intelligently
assigns tasks to individuals with spare time or looking for extra income,
effectively creating a network of service providers. Whether it's a sudden
craving for pineapples or guidance on local LGBT communities, NicNac delivers
customized solutions promptly and efficiently.
From Constraint to Creation: The Birth of NicNac
Sachira, who also manages the software company Erbenlab, was
inspired to launch NicNac due to time constraints. Co-founded with Ajith
Prasanna, NicNac started modestly in May with 14 team members. Today, thanks to
streamlined automation, the workforce has been reduced to three—a testament to
the startup's efficiency and scalability.
Biography of Sachira Fernando: Founder of NicNac & Exbenlab/From Bedroom Coder to Tech Entrepreneur/ Coder/ NicNac/Sri Lanka/ Startup/Journey Sachira
Automating Convenience: Scaling NicNac
Automation is central to NicNac's growth trajectory. Every
aspect of the service, from request recording to task allocation, is
computerized. What was once reliant on human effort has now been optimized
online, allowing NicNac to handle nearly 500 requests daily with precision and
speed.
Serving Diverse Needs: The Human Touch
Despite its automation, NicNac retains a personal touch for
unique requests that defy algorithms. By breaking down requests into keywords
and leveraging user histories, the platform ensures accuracy while preserving
the need for human intervention in special cases, reflecting Sachira's
commitment to customer satisfaction and service excellence.
Introducing NicNac: Simplifying Urban Errands
Undeterred by setbacks, Sachira co-founded NicNac, an online
platform designed for urban convenience. NicNac facilitates the ordering and
delivery of various services, from laundry to medical supplies and license
recovery. This initiative reflects Sachira's drive to leverage technology for
practical solutions that enhance daily life in cities.
Navigating the Future of Software Development
Looking ahead, Sachira Fernando envisions an information
technology revolution where simplicity and sophistication converge seamlessly
in software solutions. As the industry evolves, he emphasizes the importance of
fail-proofing software products against technological risks. Sachira believes
that users increasingly demand intuitive, AI-powered platforms that deliver
accurate results efficiently, without the need for extensive tutorials or
guides. This strategic integration of artificial intelligence aims to
streamline user experience and enhance productivity, ensuring software meets
user expectations effectively.
NicNac: Innovating Urban Convenience
NicNac, under the leadership of Sachira Fernando, continues
to redefine convenience with a range of innovative services that cater to
diverse needs in urban life. From providing bus routes and timetables to
delivering essential items and offering specialized assistance, NicNac has
become a go-to platform for personalized service in Sri Lanka.
Enhancing User Experience with Advanced Algorithms
NicNac has integrated an advanced algorithm into its
platform to streamline services like bus route inquiries. This algorithm
automatically updates the app with timetable information and routes. For
requests outside the system, dedicated personnel ensure accurate and timely
responses, reflecting NicNac's commitment to enhancing user experience through
technology.
The Butlers of NicNac: A Vital Support Network
With close to 150 registered 'butlers,' NicNac operates with
approximately 40 active at any given time. These individuals use their own
bikes to fulfill customer requests, working on a commission basis. NicNac
charges between 200 to 2,000 rupees per service, taking a 10% cut while
ensuring the rest goes directly to the delivery personnel. Plans are underway
to introduce a subscription fee for enhanced customer access.
Popular Services: Driving Solutions and International
Deliveries
Two standout services offered by NicNac include designated
drivers for intoxicated individuals and assistance with license recovery. The
driver service sees high demand, particularly on busy nights like Wednesdays,
Fridays, and Saturdays, providing safe transport home in the customer's
vehicle. Meanwhile, the license recovery service alleviates the hassle of dealing
with fines and police stations in remote areas.
Going Global: International Procurement
NicNac also facilitates international procurement, catering
to requests for items from overseas destinations like Mustafa's in Singapore.
For a fee, NicNac manages the logistics of importing goods, offering
convenience and accessibility that resonate with its customer base.
Overcoming Challenges in a Crowded Market
Operating in a competitive landscape poses significant
challenges for Sachira's software company. Amidst numerous competitors,
differentiation is key. Sachira tackles this hurdle by focusing on pioneering
features that set his company apart from others in the industry. Despite the
initial hardships faced in the first six months since inception, Sachira
remains committed to refining processes and achieving operational equilibrium.
Business Wisdom from Sachira Fernando
Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Sachira offers
valuable advice to aspiring business leaders. He advocates a shift in
perspective from solely pursuing profit to creating meaningful impact and
enhancing lives through business ventures. By prioritizing community building
and lifestyle enhancement over mere financial gains, entrepreneurs can
cultivate sustainable enterprises driven by purpose. Sachira underscores that
when businesses prioritize serving others and adding value, financial success
naturally follows, fostering resilience and long-term growth.
Sachira Fernando's entrepreneurial spirit and technological
acumen continue to drive his ventures forward, demonstrating resilience and a
keen focus on addressing real-world challenges through digital innovation.
